I'm 36 should I be playing video games?

Question

I'm 36. I have a small business in technical design. Last year, I did about $88,000 in business. This year, 2008, only $12k so far.

I've had a difficult time procuring new clients and do not have the money to advertise.

I have looked for a new job, but unfortunately in 2001 I was charged with a s*x crime by (my an ex girlfriend of two years). I was convicted of a felony, given a sentence of five years. After spending two years in prison, the Oregon supreme court decided the trial was unfair and reversed the conviction. Regardless, the info is out there and as such have had difficulty finding suitable employment. not sure if this is why, but I wanted to give full disclosure and let you know my situation.

also, I have a son and daughter who live in california. I send them money every month, but am feeling the pressure of trying to keep up with the demands of supporting two kids. I see them 1-2x a month for a weekend or couple days.

additionally, I live with my girlfriend, and for some strange reason she feels everything is going to get better and we are going to get married. Me? Not so much.

I'm not complaining. Life could be worse, but I wanted to get anyone's feedback about my situation since, I mean, c'mon maybe suicide is appropriate for some people.

Answer 1

It's funny that you mentioned suicide toward the bottom of your message because I had an uncle who committed suicide, and I know that the fact that he had a felony on his record had a lot to do with it. I don't particularly agree with the system because of the different circumstances that aren't taken into account when punishing someone. I know that once you have a felony on your record it is almost impossible to find stability again. I'm not saying that there are not those who deserve it, but a lot of people are getting punished unfairly. I watched my uncle die a slow death, and he said at the very end, that if he had to do it over again, he would choose to live. I don't know you, but I do know that if you're man enough to put your issues out there in public in order to help them, then you deserve a second chance. Unfortunately, there will be important areas of your life (such as your career) that will never see past YOUR past, but if you make sure that YOU know the truth (the fact that you ARE NOT your mistake), then OF COURSE, you have the right to play videogames. And if anyone  doesnt like it, tuff. Only YOU know the extent of your capabilities. So if you've done all you could today, play your games! ...and please DON'T feel bad about it or let anyone make you feel bad about it. Believe me, if you agree with or even give question to how the world treats you, or has, I assure you, it's a big mistake....ESPECIALLY being someone with a felony. Most of society gives into itself by believing that if they don't reach a certain status, then they aren't fit to live, and it simply isn't true. If you give in, you will never get a break. I think your life might have to become a test in individuality. Just keep trying and believe in yourself. I really hope this helps, or at least brings you an ounce of inspiration.  

Answer 2

go on doing what you are doing. there is not much you can do to change the past, but we have control of the direction our future is heading. I am 33, and I still play video games. Just be a good dad and no one can criticize you for that one.